Another Possible Place

According to a team source, Knicks president Donnie Walsh and Iverson's agent met two weeks ago to discuss the possibility of Iverson joining the Knicks. The Knicks would sign Iverson only if D'Antoni endorsed the move. Iverson, 34, has a history of clashing with head coaches, which would obviously concern D'Antoni. However, there is also a feeling that Iverson will thrive in D'Antoni's free-flowing offense. Plus, signing Iverson would generate buzz for the Knicks, who have thus far been shut out in the free agent market.

Rubio Rumors

El Periodico reported Wednesday that Regal FC Barcelona is prepared to give Rubio a five-year contract worth $1.4 million annually with an escape clause that would allow him to play in the NBA after two years. The point guard has two years remaining on his contract with his current Spanish team, DKV Joventut, and has been seeking to have his $6.6 million buyout reduced. Marca.com reported that DKV Joventut has an agreement on the buyout with Real Madrid, but Rubio wants to stay in Barcelona. Looks like he won't be staying to play NBA this season. "I do not know how long it will take to clear my future," he said. Rubio also said, "I have not decided, but almost," adding that going to the NBA would be "very difficult."

Back to Form

Houston Rockets star Tracy McGrady guarantees he will return to the Rockets for the 2009-2010 season and that he will be a major factor. It would be very nice if T-Mac comes back healthy. I know the Rockets will need him with Yao gone.

Warrick to Bucks

Hakim Warrick, an athletic 6-foot-9 forward who played the past four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, has reached agreement with the Bucks on a one-year deal, sources indicated Friday. Warrick averaged 11.6 points and 5.0 rebounds while appearing in all 82 games for the Grizzlies last season, primarily in a bench role. The Grizzlies withdrew their qualifying offer to Warrick last week, making him an unrestricted free agent. A number of teams showed interest in Warrick, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Bobcats. Warrick is able to play both the small forward and power forward positions and should have an opportunity to start for the Bucks, who have lost Richard Jefferson (in a trade) and Charlie Villanueva (to free agency) this summer.

Warrick played four years at Syracuse and was a member of the Orange's NCAA championship team during his sophomore season. He blocked a three-point attempt to preserve Syracuse's victory over Kansas in the NCAA title. game.

Still Going

This is the interview with LT on Rome is Burning:

Adrian Peterson '08

Highlights for AP

ROY [Maybe]

Nets are happy Terrence Williams is all theirs. The rookie swingman wasn't the best player in the recent Orlando Pro Summer League but Williams showed some of the attributes that made the Nets use the No. 11 pick on him. He really showed what he's capable of doing as he showed he can become a lock-down defender. His ability to make the game easier for his teammates on the offensive end, and also his ability to rebound the ball stood out. The only thing Williams didn't do was make shots. He was 19-of-56 overall and 5-of-11 on foul shots. "He's got good offensive instincts," said an Eastern Conference coach. "He's got size and he can pass. He showed good potential. He looks like a rotation-type player, which in summer league is the best you're going to get out of it. The other thing is playing for [Rick] Pitino you know he's going to know how to work, which is a big part of it your first year, too." Known for his ability to fill up a stat sheet, Williams averaged 9.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists and 1.6 steals in the summer league. Do not be surprised if he walks away with Rookie of the Year honors.

Thunder On the Rise

The Thunder are catching up in the West, now with a new reason to be very encouraged about the future. That’s in case it isn’t enough that Kevin Durant is beginning to touch stardom, that Russell Westbrook needs months, rather than years, to become a starting point guard and the Thunder establishing themselves as one of the best rebounding teams in the league. The post-summer league scouting report from one opposing personnel boss is that “James Harden is as solid as they get. He’s got 20-point scorer written all over him.” Said another: “NBA skills and NBA mind.” Meaning the No. 3 pick in the June draft, a shooting guard from Arizona State, is tracking toward an immediate and significant contribution despite flying under the radar of the likes of Blake Griffin, Hasheem Thabeet, Tyreke Evans, Jonny Flynn and Rubio. As the others have been praised and dissected, Harden quietly has established a game that is much more a statement on dependability than flash. He was always one of the most NBA-ready players available and just happened to be a perfect position fit for the Thunder. Playing next to Westbrook, Harden should offer Oklahoma City a secondary ball handler capable of scoring at a level to make him a perfect complementary threat for Durant and deliver the offensive boost the Thunder needs. Watch out for the Thunder in the next five years.

Odom Stays

The Lakers and free agent forward Lamar Odom have agreed on a four-year deal, a source with knowledge of the negotiations said Thursday afternoon. The fourth year of the contract is the team's option. ESPN.com reported that the contract is worth $33 million over four years. However the source said that figure is a bit high. Odom's agent Jeff Schwartz did not return messages left on his cell phone. Lakers officials refused to comment on the matter.

Pats? A Possibility Definitely Not Out

Vick made the comment to reporters as he left a courtroom after a hearing in his bankruptcy case. Asked about his progress in signing with a team, Vick said: "We're getting close." He declined to answer additional questions. A team he may be referring to is the Pats. Patriots coach Bill Belichick was asked about the possibility of Vick returning to the NFL, with the implied question being with this team?

“Michael is an outstanding player, you know, hasn’t played in a couple years, but right now, our focus is on our team and our player, trying to get the New England Patriots ready. That’s where my attention has been. But exactly where he is right now, I don’t know. ”

That would be very interesting move for them. Although he could me a UFL team but nobody knows.

New Team

The joke began circulating minutes after MJ hired Larry Brown: The demanding Hall of Fame coach will want to trade everybody on the Bobcats' roster before opening night. A little over a year later, Brown is more than halfway there. It's uncertain if the moves will be enough to make the Bobcats a playoff team in the improved Eastern Conference. But clearly Brown has been given plenty of power.

Receivers Are Ready

With the exception of Santana Moss, Jason Campbell had no viable downfield options. Antwaan Randle El is coming off a down year, and wideouts Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly were disappointed as rookies. Thomas had maturity/professionalism issues, and Kelly's knee problem. But Campbell believes Thomas and Kelly "are ready for us to count on them and really help us. They're ready for us to lean on them. I'm saying that because of what I've seen from them" in workouts. If Thomas and Kelly emerge as productive receivers, the Redskins could move Randle El into more of the slot role, for which he is better suited and was originally signed to play.

Big Talk

Texas coach Mack Brown was asked if he thinks former Longhorns receiver Roy Williams can be a No. 1 receiver with the Cowboys and said this:

"Yes, Roy Williams is one of the great athletes I've ever been around. He's really a good person. He's been in a tough situation in Detroit. I think when he came into Dallas last year, he came in late and didn't really know the system. I think we'll see Roy Williams have a breakout year and be as good as any receiver that we've ever seen.''

That is big talk from ol Mack Brown. Hope Williams can produce and get the 'Boys some win.

TNew Raven Wideout

Because of the shortage of receivers, backup quarterback Troy Smith has been taking a lot of reps as a receiver. The Ravens are in the market for receivers, but they might not have to look far down their roster. Smith has been impressive. But there is enough free agent receivers they can get [ex. Joe Horn and Marvin Harrison].

Trade

For almost a year, Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo has been chasing guard Marco Belinelli of the Golden State Warriors. He got him. A conference call to confirm the deal is scheduled for late Thursday morning as the Raptors have traded Devean George and “a little bit of cash” to Golden State for the 6-5 guard from Italy.

R.I.P

Jim Johnson is remembered as the ultimate assistant coach. As a motivator, he was tough, yet sensitive. As a defensive mastermind, he cut his players loose to blitz, blitz, blitz the quarterback. Johnson, defensive coordinator of the Eagles for the past decade, died Tuesday at age 68 after a battle with cancer. He had taken a leave of absence in May. Stricken with back pain during the playoffs last season, he coached from the press box during a postseason victory over the New York Giants and a loss to the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship Game. After the loss to Arizona, it was announced he had a cancerous tumor on his spine. He was one of the best

Retired Finally [I think]

After months of speculation and debate,[finally] Favre called Vikings coach Brad Childress on Tuesday to tell the coach he won’t be coming out of retirement to play for Minnesota. “It was the hardest decision I’ve ever made,” Favre told ESPN. “I didn’t feel like physically I could play at a level that was acceptable. "The decision, which was first reported by the Star Tribune of Minneapolis, is a stunner for the Vikings after they courted Favre all summer. Adding him would have been viewed by many as the final piece. Although I have to admit, having him with the Vikings would have been an very interesting team and situation up there in the NFC North. Favre turns 40 in October and didn’t think he had enough left to get through a full season. Even though I do not apreciate the retiring and comeback, I have to admit he is one of the best QBs that played the game, hands down.

Side Note: Wouldn't be surprised if something changed

Fake or Real?

Background info is Stephen Marbury had a 24 hour webcam broadcast & this is a little of what was going on:

And below is another vid of a comedian Donnel Rawlings Does A Stephon Marbury Parody! lol

Ron Artest More Raps

Shaq on WWE

Still Gaining Players

Marquis Daniels has agreed to come to the Celtics, and his former team, the Indiana Pacers, have agreed to sweeten the pot for the player by cooperating in a sign-and-trade deal. The only problem is Indiana’s compensation. Two league sources confirmed yesterday the Celtics and Pacers are seeking a third team to facilitate the trade.

Career Over

Harpring is trying to determine whether knee and ankle injuries will force an end to his 11-year NBA career. "The [knee] cartilage isn't there any more -- it just isn't," he said. "When motion isn't there ... I mean, I would would love to have something to make it come back. But I don't." Harpring has already thought about life after basketball because he's endured knee surgery and, last summer, a nasty post-operative infection in his ankle that required antibiotics for six months. Harpring struggled through the season, which he vows won't happen again.

Destination

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Redskins, 49ers, Raiders and Seahawks can be ruled out as possible options for Michael Vick.You can also add the Bills & Bengals as Bengals owner Mike Brown announced Tuesday that his team won't pursue free agent Michael Vick and [Bills] Russ Brandon insisted Tuesday that his team is not interested in free agent Michael Vick. Well there are twenty or so teams left now. Also Ray Anderson, the league’s executive vice president of football operations, tells NFL.com senior columnist Thomas George that Michael Vick could find himself suiting up in Week 1 of the regular season “if all goes well” and that commissioner Roger Goodell’s decision to conditionally reinstate the quarterback shouldn’t be viewed as a six-game suspension.

Maybe Stealing Powe

Leon Powe is considering an offer from Cleveland. Apparently Dallas has an offer to him as well, but with Drew Gooden signing he might be leaning towards taking the Cavs offer. He still has not received an offer from Boston. Cavs are trying to make sure they can get out the East if they truly go after him.

Moving in the Right Direction

The Charlotte Bobcats are finalizing a trade that would send Emeka Okafor to the New Orleans Hornets for Tyson Chandler. New Orleans is seen as getting the better end of this one (at least on the court), as Emeka is a career 14 and 11 guy to Tyson's 8 and 9 (even his best season was 12 and 12, the only time he averaged more than 10 points a game). Financially, the Bobcats shed a long-term commitment and pickup a medium term one: Why make this deal if you're the Cats? Well, Tyson Chandler may not score much, but he is an elite defender. Chandler is possibly even more limited than Okafor. He’s taller and more agile, probably a better one-on-one post-defender. Skill-wise, that’s where the differences stop. Chandler is equally as inept as Okafor on the offensive end, scoring mostly on lobs from Chris Paul and putbacks. Like Okafor, Chandler has no low-post game of his own and no ability to hit a mid-range jumper. Despite the fact that Okafor has been more productive over his NBA career than Chandler, I've not been a huge Okafor fan for the past several years. I would argue that he never really improved since that standout rookie season. He was one of the only drafted Bobcats left [besides Gerald Wallace from the dispersal draft] but it would be a whole lot sadder if the Bobcats had won anything worth winning during his five seasons here. Now they just need AI and playoff contenders.

Welcome Back [sort of]

The biggest news of the day came around 4ish, Michael Vick was reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday and could play in regular-season games as early as October. Vick can immediately participate in preseason practices, workouts and meetings and can play in the final two preseason games but that is if he can find a team that will sign him. The letter sent to Vick said "Needless to say, your margin for error is extremely limited," Goodell said in a letter to Vick. "I urge you to take full advantage of the resources available to support you and to dedicate yourself to rebuilding your life and your career. If you do this, the NFL will support you. I accept that you are sincere when you say that you want to, and will, turn your life around, and that you intend to be a positive role model for others," Goodell added. "I am prepared to offer you that opportunity. Whether you succeed is entirely in your hands." Once the season begins, Vick may participate in all team activities except games, and Goodell said he would consider Vick for full reinstatement by Week 6. Vick wrote in a response letter, "I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to commissioner Goodell for allowing me to be readmitted to the National Football League," Vick said through agent Joel Segal. "I fully understand that playing football in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given. As you can imagine, the last two years have given me time to re-evaluate my life, mature as an individual and fully understand the terrible mistakes I have made in the past and what type of life I must lead moving forward. Again, I want to thank the commissioner for the chance to return to the game I love and the opportunity to become an example of positive change.I would like to also thank coach Tony Dungy for all of his support and for serving as a mentor.” The Commish did say something that I want everyone to do, "I do recognize that some will never forgive him for what he did," Goodell said. "I hope that the public will have a chance to understand his position as I have." God bless Mike Vick.

Small Injury

Spurs guard Tony Parker suffered two injuries to his right leg in a collision with an opponent while playing for the French national team against Austria on Friday night in Strasbourg, France. According to French sports newspaper L'Equipe, Parker left the game on a crutch after 12 minutes with a sharp pain in his right thigh. Though that injury soon subsided, Parker's right ankle became swollen. By Saturday morning, it was clear the ankle was the greater issue. Parker described the MRI of his ankle as “reassuring,” calling the injury “a minor sprain, without any ligament damage.” Parker should chill so he can bring the Spurs a title this season. I do not want any injuries to the Spurs.

Thunder Up & Coming

Oklahoma City acquired Etan Thomas from the T-Wolves on Monday, sending reserve guards Damien Wilkins and Chucky Atkins to the Timberwolves. The Thunder also will get Minnesota’s second-round pick in 2010 and a conditional 2010 second-round pick from the Wolves. The move gives the Thunder an experienced big man to play behind Nenad Krstic and should allow Nick Collison to play more time in his customary power forward position. Things are looking up for Durant and his boys.

Greedy WR

The 49ers have a challenge to sign first-round selection Michael Crabtree this week for the beginning of training camp. ProFootballTalk.com reported Parker has much higher expectations than a contract commensurate with the 10th overall selection under the theory Crabtree should have been a top-five selection. The receiver from Texas Tech was a No. 10 overall draft pick but he is seeking top 3 money.If Crabtree gets top 3 money at No. 10, then the picks around him such as Moreno [who was selected at No. 12 overall] would negotiate their contracts accordingly. Other news out of the Crabtree camp, the superstar-in-waiting has signed with Jordan Brand. At least Crabtree's early career, he'll be a Nike guy.

Another Celeb Couple Over

Kim Kardashian and her boyfriend of two years, Reggie Bush, are going their separate ways, the reality star's rep confirms to PEOPLE. The pair, who recently returned from a charity trip to Africa with Kardashian's sister Khloe. Earlier it was reported they were "heading" toward marriage, but sources tell PEOPLE their relationship suffered from the time they spent apart & with yet another separation looming with the upcoming NFL season. Dang Bush! Well you really have to have a break out season now.

Probably Not This Season

The Patriots also placed rookie wide receiver Brandon Tate, who is rehabbing a torn anterior cruciate ligament he suffered playing for the University of North Carolina on the non-football injury/illness list (NFI). Placement on NFI means that the player is not eligible to practice or play with the team until after the conclusion of the sixth regular-season weekend. So this season looks like a no go for Tate.

3 Peat

Congrats to Jimmie J for the win, but the story of the day was Montoya getting flagged for speeding. Montoya was in cruise control as he led 116 laps and built a 5-second lead over the competition. Then NASCAR flagged him for speeding on a routine pit stop with 35 laps remaining.the penalty took him out of contention and relegated him to an 11th-place finish. Montoya, who had moved as high as sixth in the Sprint Cup standings as he ran out front, instead lost a spot and is now 10th in the race for the Chase for the championship.enalty opened up the race for anyone else to claim, and overshadowed Johnson's third win in the last four years at Indy. Johnson, who won for the third time this season, also became the first driver to win in consecutive seasons. A cut tire caused Kyle Busch to finish 38th and drop out of contention for the Chase. The bad day cost him four spots in the standings. He is 14th with six races left to set the 12-driver Chase field. The standings as of tonight:

1. T.Stewart, 3,054;

2. J.Johnson, 2,862;

3. J.Gordon, 2,847;

4. Ku.Busch, 2,608;

5. C.Edwards, 2,556;

6. D.Hamlin, 2,518;

7. R.Newman, 2,506;

8. K.Kahne, 2,482;

9. M.Martin, 2,471;

10. J.Montoya, 2,461;

11. G.Biffle, 2,445;

12. M.Kenseth, 2,429.

More Balanced

Can you throw the ball more this season? “No,” coach Whisenhunt said, repeating the word numerous times. “Although I’m sure that Kurt might agree. The Cards this season are trying to turn themselves into a more "balance" attacked team. I do not see why you would want to do that when you have arguably the best WR in the game on one side and the other one in the top 10. He may have been trying to fool other coaches but not me. Whisenhunt doesn’t expect a huge drop in production but he feels success in the playoffs shows, if they can be a more balanced team, that is what would gravitate them towards in the run game. So I am expected Beanie Wells to come through for them when his number is called.

Mavs trying to Contend

Sources with knowledge of the deal told ESPN.com that Gooden is receiving a one-year contract worth a guaranteed $4.5 million with incentives that will likely take it beyond $5 million by season's end. A formal announcement of the signing is expected Monday or Tuesday. Gooden had previously announced via Twitter on Friday that he would be "making my decision tomorrow on which team I will be playing for." Sources said that Gooden had narrowed his final choices to Dallas, Cleveland and Charlotte. Gooden announced via his Twitter feed shortly past midnight Saturday that he is signing with the Mavericks. "Dallas here I come," he wrote. In response, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban tweeted: "Welcome Drew." I guess the Mavs could not get Gortat and Brandon Bass [who both signed with the Magic] so they got what they thought, the best free agent left.

LT is Back

A lot of talk has been going around whether or not LT is done or is he still at the top. Well my opinion is that he is still the best in the league. I mean when you rush for over 1,000 and 10 TDs and people think you have an off year, that is great. The SD Tribune interviewed Norv Turner on LT situation this upcoming season:

What did you see from LT this offseason?

"No. 1, he's really focused and determined. I think his mindset is that he's excited to have a great year. I didn't see any physical limitations at all from his injuries. I liked what I saw in terms of the explosiveness."

What do you expect from him, since Darren Sproles will have a slightly larger role in the offense?

"I would expect LT to be among the top three or four rushers in the league. And depending how our season goes and the games go, he'll be a factor in the rushing title. Darren is going to complement him. But Darren's starting point is in the return game and we'll pick our spots with him on offense."

TO talking with Sense

I can finally agree with something T.O. has said. He made his feelings known on the Mike Vick situation. Terrell Owens wants Michael Vick to be reinstated immediately by the NFL, and said any extension of the quarterback’s suspension would be similar to "kicking a dead horse." the star receiver referred to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell’s handling of Vick’s status as "unfair." Owens also lobbied to have more of the league’s high-profile players voicing their opinion in support of Vick. "I think he’s done the time for what he’s done. I don’t think it’s really fair for him to be suspended four more games," Owens said, referring to reports that the NFL is considering to further punish Vick. "It’s almost like kicking a dead horse in the ground. ... The guy’s already suffered so much. And to add a four-game suspension on a two-year prison sentence, that’s ridiculous." I did not stop agreeing with him there, as he echoed the same thing I said a few days ago. Owens said Vick deserves a second chance. "Why shouldn’t he? I mean, there’s a lot more guys around the league that have done far more worst things than that and gotten second chances," Owens said. Although, I believe his real motive was he was trying to lobby Vick to the Bills. Owens said he would welcome Vick as a teammate. "Michael Vick is a guy that really hasn’t any character issues besides what he got a prison sentence for, so why not?" he said.

West Continue to get Tougher

According to sources in Philadelphia and Portland, Andre Miller has agreed to a contract with the Blazers believed to be for 2-3 years. He can take the Blazers to the next level in their quest for a championship. Andre Miller would be a significant upgrade at the point. Any move that allows Brandon Roy to focus more on dropping buckets on defenses from the 2 spot is a great move for the Blazers.

No NBA

A Spanish Web site reported Wednesday that Cavaliers' first-round draft pick Christian Eyenga reportedly re-signs with Spanish team. The shooting guard signed a three-year contract less than a week after completing summer league with the Cavs. He signed a new contract with DKV Joventut in Spain [Rubio's ex team]. The Cavs will maintain his rights but it is still unclear whether the contract has opt-out clauses or a significant buyout to come to the NBA.

Going Back to Detroit

Cleveland Cavaliers traded Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic to the Phoenix Suns for Shaquille O'Neal last month, it was speculated once Wallace took a buyout, and if he didn't retire, that he would return to either the Cavaliers or the Detroit Pistons. Wallace took a $10 million buyout from the Suns. Rumors have it, he will sign a one-year deal with the Pistons. That is where he will probably finish out his career.

Terrible Offseason

LeBron James was having his own issues and hasn't gotten better. This has been an off summer for "The King"

• League's MVP and not bring home the title
• Storming off the court without congratulating the Magic
• He was seen wearing an "LBJ MVP" shirt [some found arrogant]
• His lack of a future commitment is killing the Cavs's free agent [ex. Artest|Ariza]
• Jordan Crawford dunking on him in his own camp [now Nike says it is returning videotapes]
• Admits he smoked marijuana during his junior year in high school [struggled with sudden fame]

I mean, dang 'Bron you better keep a low key until October rolls around.

Champs??

The Spurs on Thursday added another defensive-minded player to their front line, signing veteran center Theo Ratliff. The Spurs now have seven big men under contract: Returning veterans Tim Duncan, Matt Bonner and Ian Mahinmi; recently signed free agents Antonio McDyess, Marcus Haislip and Ratliff; and second-round draft pick DeJuan Blair. Ratliff is seen as veteran insurance behind Duncan and McDyess in the low post, a solid rebounder and defender whose presence will allow Spurs coach Gregg Popovich to better manage the minutes of both Duncan.

Mental Tests....

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals threatened to protest the return to pro football of convicted dogfighting ring leader Vick unless he undergoes a psychological evaluation, according to CBS 9News Now. I do not know what is wrong with PETA. Sometimes group like these take things overboard just because they can. I mean what can you possible learn? Just leave the man alone, he does not even have money or his name.

Vick is suppose to be meeting with the Commish sometime within the next few days.

Starting QB is...

Ryan admitted that he won't hesitate to make rookie Mark Sanchez the Opening Day starter if warranted. Then again, he won't hesitate to start Kellen Clemens either. "I got to do what's best for this football team," Ryan said. "That's the easy thing. I feel confident that the guy that wins that job and comes out of there and is our Opening Day starter,he'll have earned it. It won't be just because he's had experience or just because he was a first-round pick. The guy's going to have to earn the job. Competition brings out the best in everybody. You're going to get the best that Kellen Clemens has. You're going to get the best that Mark Sanchez has. And that's a good thing." He should just start Sanchez and be done with it because we all know he will play at some point during this season. The Jets is Sanchez's team now & the future. Ryan just is making it easier on Clemens.

NFL Draft '10

The NFL draft will kick off in prime time for the first time in 2010, it was announced Thursday. The first round of the 2010 NFL Draft will start on Thursday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the second and third rounds on Friday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m. ET, followed by Rounds 4-7 on Saturday, April 24 at 10 a.m. ET. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said, "Moving the first round to prime time on Thursday night will make the first round of the draft available to fans on what is typically the most-watched night of television." Well whenever it is, I will be watching to see Sam Bradford be picked.

ESPY Awards '09 [Spoiler Alert]

If you are going to miss parts of the ESPYs or just want to know who will win, here is the list:

Best Female Athlete: Nastia Liukin

Best Male Athlete: Michael Phelps

Best Moment: US Swim team rallies

Best Team: LA Lakers

Best Coach/Manager: Phil Jackson

Best Game: Super Bowl XLIII

Best Championship Performance: Michael Phelps

Best Play: Roethlisberger to Holmes

Best Upset: US Soccer shocks Spain

Best Breakthrough Athlete: Matt Ryan

Best Record Breaking Performance: Michael Phelps

Best Sports Movie: The Express

Best Male College Athlete: Tim Tebow

Best Female College Athlete: Maya Moore

Best Male Athlete with a Disability: Jason Lester

Best Female Athlete with a Disability: Erin Popovich

Best International Male Athlete: Usain Bolt

Best International Female Athlete: Lorena Ochoa

Best MLB Player: Albert Pujols

Best NBA Player: Lebron James

Best WNBA Player: Candace Parker

Best NFL Player: Larry Fitzgerald

Best NHL Player: Sidney Crosby

Home Sweet Home

Wade will be joining his USA teammates as Nike announced Friday that the star Miami Heat guard will now represent the Jumpman label, joining Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, Derek Jeter and others. Wade had three years left on his deal with Converse, which made him the centerpiece of its attempt to reinvigorate a once-thriving basketball business. Wade said the partnership ends on good terms. Finally, Wade will be on the Nike Brand as he should have been all along [not to kick Converse]. Wade has always seem to be that Nike guy. Wade told The AP he inquired about switching allegiances from Converse to Jordan's brand before the 2008 Beijing Olympics. What did the Legend MJ have to say bout it, "I'm thrilled to have Dwyane Wade join the Team Jordan family."

His tweet on Friday: "I'm finally home with brand Jordan."

Found a Home

News out of Cleveland was Cavs worked out Sean May yesterday, but he is going to sign with the Kings.It could still fall through, but there are strong indications that the fifth-year, 6-foot-9 forward will be added to the Kings' roster on a one-year deal. There is strong interest on both sides, but nothing has been formalized. May has had an injury-plagued four seasons in Charlotte after being drafted 13th overall by the Bobcats.

Headed to CFL

Harrell is headed to the CFL. The Saskatchewan Roughriders have agreed to terms with Graham Harrell, the Texas Tech star quarterback. Despite a prolific college career, the six-foot-two Harrell was bypassed in the 2009 NFL draft. He worked out for the Cleveland Browns but did not sign a contract with the club. Darian Durant is currently the club's starter [who played for UNC].

Heat: Eastern Contenders?

The Heat are still listening to Dwyane Wade demands of bringing in help as the Heat are trying to sell Odom on a five-year, $34 million contract at the mid-level exception, and a league executive with knowledge of the talks says Miami has also hatched a three-way proposal with the Jazz and Grizzs to secure Boozer. A possible deal would include Miami sending forward Hasleem and Dorell Wright to Utah. Because Memphis is under the cap, Utah could move Wright’s $2.8 million salary to the Grizzlies and save itself approximately $5.6 million with salary and luxury-tax payments. Memphis would probably get cash and picks for its trouble. The Heat would have to send one more small contract to make the math on the salary exchange work. The good thing about the Boozer deal, Miami could pay Boozer his $12.7 million salary this season and own his Bird rights to sign him to an extension next summer. Jazz are working hard to find a suitable trade for Boozer. This will be a blow to Kobe & Co. if they lose him and it would GREATLY improve the Heat chances in the East.

Might be a Change of Plans

General manager David Kahn is planning a trip to Spain to meet DKV Joventut officials about lowering the steep $6.6 million buyout clause in draft pick Ricky Rubio's contract. Rubio has warmed to the idea of playing in Minnesota, which is determined to make him the franchise’s cornerstone player. Jonny Flynn, who is another point guard they drafted, he’ll run the team should Rubio have to stay in Europe for another season. If Rubio gets the buyout done, most expect Kahn will trade Flynn, who was considered one of the elite point guards in the draft.

Love & Marriage

Richard Jefferson admitted yesterday that he told his beautiful bride-to-be that their wedding was off in an e-mail. "There was a lot of stress and tension in the relationship. We've been through a lot but we just couldn't continue," said Jefferson, sounding upset during a telephone interview. I mean he's giving her a "six-figure" settlement so she can start a new life but why? They been dating for five years! There has to be something more to that. Hee said, adding only that it was "a combination of things" that led to the split. Maybe it was Michael Jackson's death. The couple had planned to top off their $500,000 wedding with a honeymoon in London, where they had tickets to one of the Michael Jackson comeback shows. He insisted a rumor he's gay had nothing to do with the breakup [he has to be after breaking up with her]. He did add this "but at the end of the day, there were some people who were responsible for the demise of it." Whatever the reason is, I still think he is crazy.

No More Returns...Yet

The Bears star, who surrendered his kickoff return duties to Danieal Manning last season, said he would be willing to give up punt returns, too just not anytime in the near future.

``I think a return man simply has to be a return man,’’ Hester said. ``There’s really no other position he should go out and play. A return man is a totally different ball game from trying to be a return man and starting receiver, or the starting cornerback, or a starting safety. I don’t think it’s going to work. That’s why you never really see it last that long in the NFL. You can’t do it.

He is trying to make the transition to wide out permanently. I am sure Jay Culter would not mind him giving up the reuturn game to become a target for him.

Future QBs

The 49ers have two first-round picks in the 2010 draft, and they would be wise to assess their needs this season before deciding the best way to use those selections.The 49ers traded their second-round pick to the Panthers in April for their first-round selection in 2010. The 49ers looked at the Panthers' 2009 schedule and were struck by its on-paper difficulty. After all, the Panthers have road games against the Falcons, Cowboys, Buccaneers, Cardinals, Saints, Patriots and Giants. Niners fans will be rooting against the Panthers this season. The organization felt the trade was the best way of getting into an ideal position for next year. And the 2010 draft is shaping up as potentially a good year to select a QB. Among those who could be first-round picks in 2010 are seniors Colt McCoy and Tim Tebow, and underclassmen Sam Bradford. This is bad but I hope they fail because it would be something to see any of those three QBs with Crabtree and Veron Davis. Whew!

out of San Fran By the time the 49ers return home from their third exhibition game at Dallas on Aug. 29, they will know who their starting quarterback will be for 2009.That is as specific a timetable as coach Mike Singletary has given regarding the looming training camp competition between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith for the starting job, although nothing is in stone as he said "hopefully by the third preseason game."